TWO Kidderminster-based support workers have been rewarded for their efforts in adult social care – taking home prestigious accolades at the National Care Group’s Annual Awards.

Returning in person for 2022, 150 colleagues from across the country gathered to celebrate and reflect on the past year in care, with senior management setting out their vision for the leading social care provider over the next few years.

National Care Group supports more than 1,250 vulnerable adults across England and Wales, each with varying healthcare and specialist needs.

Following a challenging year for many in the sector, Endurance Care in Kidderminster was particularly highlighted for its duty of care. 

Team leader Wayne Richards, and support worker Jodie Richards, picked up the ‘Making a Difference’ and ‘Support Worker of the Year’ awards respectively.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Kelly Smith (right) collects the Making A Difference Award on behalf of Wayne Richards, with Karen Lewis, COO at National Care Group Kelly Smith (right) collects the Making A Difference Award on behalf of Wayne Richards, with Karen Lewis, COO at National Care Group

Wayne said: “It’s a huge honour to receive this award based on the recognition of my peers. Delivering care-assisted support to vulnerable adults cannot be achieved without strength in numbers, and to that end, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank not only those who nominated me but all those in my team at Bewdley Hill, who collaborate with respect and help make my role easier and even more enjoyable every day.”

Jodie said: “I’m delighted to be named ‘Support Worker of the Year’. Everyone across the group works incredibly hard to ensure the people we support lead happy and healthy lives. In this sense, my role is hugely enjoyable and made that much more rewarding by seeing their achievements come to fruition each day. I’d really like to thank my registered manager Kelly Smith who nominated me to receive this very special award.”

Endurance Care provides person-centred support to people with learning disabilities and autism. It forms part of 300 support services owned by National Care Group across the UK, with the group continuing to recruit and expand its offering year on year.